Dricus Du Plessis eyes Israel Adesanya fight, says Paulo Costa will have to "stand in line"

While Israel Adesanya's return to the octagon will come next month at UFC 287, there is already a contender looking to challenge him if he is able to reclaim the middleweight throne. Dricus du Plessis shared that he would like to challenge 'The Last Stylebender' while claiming that he will not face Paulo Costa.

Speaking in the post-fight press conference following his UFC 285 victory over Derek Brunson, 'Stillknocks' stated:

"I think they're waiting to see what happens with Izzy and [Alex] Pereira. If Izzy wins this fight with Pereira, I'm the only guy in the top five he hasn't fought, so that makes sense. If Pereira wins, I'm not sure what they want to do, but at the end of the day, it's probably going to be a No.1-contender fight or a title shot. I'm happy with either of those."

While a victory at UFC 287 will mean that Israel Adesanya has defeated every middleweight in the top five, there is a possibility that a trilogy against Alex Pereira could also be scheduled. Although Dricus du Plessis would like to fight for the title, he shared that would be happy with a No.1-contender fight, as long as Paulo Costa isn't his opponent, adding:

"Paulo Costa had his chance. He's behind me right now so I'm not even focusing on him. I called him out previously because he was ranked in front of me, but right now, he can stand in line."

Check out Dricus du Plessis' full comments below:

While Du Plessis mentioned Robert Whittaker as a potential opponent, he noted that the No.2-ranked middleweight seems destined to face Khamzat Chimaev. 'Stillknocks' had called for a bout against Paulo Costa following his UFC 282 victory over Darren Till.

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Israel Adesanya's return: Dricus du Plessis believes 'The Last Stylebender' will reclaim the middleweight throne

Israel Adesanya has been unable to defeat Alex Pereira in three matchups so far -- two in kickboxing and the latest loss being in MMA. Speaking to The Schmo ahead of UFC 285, Dricus du Plessis revealed that he believes the No.1-ranked middleweight will finally be able to overcome his rival:

"I honestly see Adesanya getting that title back... I just think Adesanya's mindset is to beat this guy that's been taking food off his table for so long and I think that's going to be a different animal and maybe we see the old Adesanya back coming there throwing, not playing it safe, and that's going to make a big difference. I honestly believe I'm facing Adesanya for that belt."

Check out Dricus du Plessis' comments on Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira 2 below (starting at the 4:00 mark):

Despite having no wins and three losses against Alex Pereira, Israel Adesanya remains a -145 betting favorite. At the same time, the middleweight champion is a +125 underdog due to how closely contested each bout has been.